As Alberto and I have gotten older and traveled more, we’ve always aimed to make the most of our time in each country, packing in as much as possible for each journey. Road trips have become one of our favorite ways to explore because they offer so much freedom. No rigid schedules, no limitations, just you, the road, and whatever adventures pop up along the way!
Last summer, we had big plans. We wanted to explore parts of France, Spain, and Sicily. But there was one place still on our list, Corsica. Although Alberto lives in France, he had never been. Known across Europe as a popular summer destination, Corsica is famous for its hiking trails, but the island offers much more: cliffside medieval towns, breathtaking coastal drives, mountain views, and quiet villages full of history.
We quickly learned that the best way to explore Corsica is by car. Public transportation is limited and only reaches select parts of the island. Luckily, driving was no issue, roads are well maintained and Alberto has a French driver’s license. (If you’re visiting from abroad, you can get an international license, but it’s something you’ll want to organize in advance.)
Learn more HERE about International Licenses
Planning the Route
Figuring out the itinerary was surprisingly manageable. Our main priorities were choosing affordable places to stay and planning scenic, worthwhile stops along the way. I honestly think we nailed this road trip, especially considering we only had six days!
We managed to explore every corner of the island: from Ajaccio in the West to Bonifacio in the South, over to Porto-Vecchio on the East coast, and up to Corte and Calvi in the North.
Come along for the ultimate Corsican road trip!
DAY ONE:
- Pick up car in Ajaccio
- Lounge at Plage De Roccapina
- Lunch in Bonifacio
- Spend the night in Sartène
Pick up rental car from Ajaccio airport early in the morning. Because we took the overnight Ferry into Ajaccio, we took a bus from the port to the airport which was only about 40 minutes.
The first stop on the road trip is Plage De Roccapina, an incredible hidden cove for beach lounging and soaking up the sun. Driving down the bumpy road to this cove was a rough journey for having a small car, but we managed!
Bonifacio will be the second stop, where we enjoyed a nice lunch and stroll through the medieval town that rests just along the edge of the white cliffs. There is also a citadel, but one of the other beautiful experiences here is The Escalier du Roi d’Aragon (King of Aragon’s Stairs), which takes you down the white cliffs closer to the water for incredible views. The city literally glows from the white cliffs and coloring of the town!
Spend the night in Sartène, a town perched high in the valleys of Corsica, perfect for sunset views. We stayed at Hotel Des Roches Sartene, just near the center of town and the views from our room were just sensational. The town itself is very cute and small, perfect for taking an evening stroll and explore what the town has to offer. We had a delicious meal here at La Trattoria Sartene.
Day Two
- Morning at Plage de Santa Giulia
- Lunch in Porto-Vecchio
- Evening drive to Corte & stay 2 nights
Started off the morning early with a nice drive to Plage de Santa Giulia where we enjoyed more beach lounging (driving is exhausting, rest!). This beach is recommended to visit when in Corsica, but I didn’t find it to be so special. Very family friendly due to calm shallow waters, so it wasn’t too relaxing when listening to screaming children. The beach space is very limited, but maybe if you go early in morning you will get a nice spot!
Nearby is the town of Porto-Vecchio and we enjoyed a nice lunch and drink, followed by a lovely stroll through the streets and a quick visit the Citadelle. We stretch our legs for as long as we could before embarking on our long drive to the valleys of Corte.
Set off on the scenic route through the valleys of Corsica to Corte, where you’ll spend two nights, close to some of the most beautiful cities made for the perfect day trips! We stayed at an apartment in Corte, located on the main street and a 15 minute walk into the town with restaurants, bars and shops.
Day Three
- Explore L’île-Rousse
- Body surf at Plage de Bodri
- Evening in Corte
First stop is L’île-Rousse, where you can visit the lighthouse, walk the town or lounge at the beach. There is so much to offer here, but the lighthouse is an absolute must for beautiful views of the city backdropped by mountains and the waves crashing onto the beach. We enjoyed a nice drink and snack in the town.
Looking for wave action? Visit Plage de Bodri for the thrill of swimming the big waves. We looked up nearby beaches from L’île-Rousse and this one was commonly known, too common that there was a long line to park for access to the beach! Worth it though, 100%
Finish the day in Corte and visit the Citadelle at sunset, and then enjoy a nice dinner in the town square. There are several options to choose from that border the square, look at the menus and see what interests you most!
Day Four
- Morning in Calvi
- Drive back to Ajaccio via Piana
- Spend two nights in Ajaccio
Calvi will be the first stop of the day, known for its ancient town and incredible views from the Citadelle. It’s a very quaint and quiet town, perfect for exploring and grabbing a quick bite along the port.
From Calvi you’ll be making your way back to Ajaccio, but drive through Piana for incredible views of the unique colored rock formations that guide the road and incredible views the whole way through.
Finish the day in Ajaccio where you’ll stay two additional nights to explore and say goodbye to the car
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